Jerida asks for aid in her quest to help the needy
Community builder, Jerida Mmamalatsoa Kgale from Mankweng hopes to build a safe haven for the underprivileged in her community.
POLOKWANE – “Caring for a child is not always easy. For some parents, the task becomes a rather strenuous and stressful one, especially financially and physically.” These are the words of Jerida Mmamalatsoa Kgatle from Unit G Extension in Mankweng who is the founder of Amogelang Lesego La Bana drop-in centre. The centre aims to provide an environment in which homeless and marginalised individuals in the community can feel safe, supported and empowered. Meaningful life skills such as cooking, cleaning and sewing are taught in an attempt to find jobs and help reverse the spiral of homelessness and poverty.
“I started the organisation in 2019 and so far, we have managed to help over 60 children and homes in the area. Although we only occupy a one-roomed shack, we still manage to meet our goal and mission, which is to help the less fortunate. We are hoping and praying that God shines His grace our way so that we can gain at least two or three more rooms to be able to serve the community with ease,” she explained.
The centre is much more than its namesake, as it also caters for young children with homework and giving them a safe place to stay after school while their parents are still at work. “What pushed me to pursue the centre was seeing young children going to school without school shoes or schoolbags and that really broke my heart. I felt compelled to do something and help where I can. This is why I started the centre. By asking for donations, wherever and whenever I could, going house to house, I realised that the community is willing to help where they can. I want to urge anyone who is willing and can assist the to do so without hesitation as not all of us are able to meet our daily and essential needs. Your assistance really does go a long way and we appreciate it a lot,” she added. Jerida has asked for donations of any kind, including food, books, shoes (school and casual), clothing and stationery so she can continue to play her role in changing the community for the better.
